Grilling a tomahawk steak is a showstopper experience that combines impressive presentation with mouthwatering flavor. This massive, bone-in ribeye cut demands a bit of technique, but with the right approach, you can achieve a perfectly cooked steak with a juicy interior and a beautifully seared crust. Here’s your friendly, easy-to-follow guide on how to grill a tomahawk steak that will impress your guests and satisfy your steak cravings.
What Is a Tomahawk Steak?
Before we dive into grilling, let’s quickly cover what makes a tomahawk steak so special. It’s essentially a ribeye beef steak with the entire rib bone left intact, resembling a tomahawk axe-hence the name. This long bone not only adds dramatic flair but also helps retain moisture and flavor during cooking.
Preparing Your Tomahawk Steak
1. Bring to Room Temperature and Dry Brine
Start by removing your tomahawk steak from the fridge about 1 to 2 hours before grilling. Pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Then, generously season all sides with kosher salt. This dry brining process helps the salt penetrate the meat, enhancing flavor and tenderness. Let it rest uncovered on a rack to air dry and absorb the seasoning.
2. Optional Seasoning
If you like, add freshly cracked black pepper or your favorite steak seasoning just before grilling or right after cooking to avoid burning the pepper during the sear.
Setting Up Your Grill for Two-Zone Cooking
The key to grilling a tomahawk steak is mastering two-zone heat. This means setting your grill so one side is hot for searing, and the other side is cooler for slow cooking.
– Preheat your grill to about 275°F (135°C) for the indirect cooking zone.
– Arrange your coals or burners so one half of the grill is on high heat (around 500°F or more) for searing, and the other half has no direct heat.
How to Grill a Tomahawk Steak: The Reverse Sear Method
1. Slow Cook on Indirect Heat
Place your tomahawk steak on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct flames. Close the lid and cook slowly until the internal temperature reaches about 120°F for medium-rare. This usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, depending on thickness and grill temperature. Flip the steak halfway through cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
2. Sear on High Heat
Once your steak reaches the target temperature, move it to the hot side of the grill for searing. Sear each side for 3 to 4 minutes with the lid open, creating a beautiful crust. Position the bone away from direct heat to prevent burning or charring.
3. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to pull the steak at your preferred doneness:
– Rare: 125°F
– Medium-rare: 135°F
– Medium: 145°F
– Medium-well: 155°F
– Well done: 160°F
Keep in mind the steak will continue to cook slightly during resting.
Resting and Serving
After searing, transfer the steak to a cutting board and let it rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a tender and juicy steak. For extra indulgence, top the steak with pads of salted butter and freshly cracked black pepper while it rests.
Tips for the Perfect Grilled Tomahawk Steak
– Use a reliable meat thermometer: This is crucial for tracking internal temperature and avoiding overcooking.
– Don’t rush the process: The reverse sear method takes time but guarantees even cooking and a flavorful crust.
– Flip regularly during indirect cooking: Flipping every 5-10 minutes helps avoid hot spots and promotes even cooking.
– Add roasted garlic or compound butter: Roasting garlic on the grill alongside your steak adds a delicious buttery flavor when spread on top.
Why Reverse Sear?
The reverse sear method-slow cooking first, then searing-ensures the steak cooks evenly from edge to edge. It prevents the outside from overcooking while the inside reaches the perfect temperature. This technique is especially important for thick cuts like the tomahawk.
Grilling a tomahawk steak is a rewarding experience that combines patience with technique. Follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy a steak that’s juicy, tender, and packed with flavor every time. Happy grilling!